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Packaging with purpose: How confectionery industry is embracing sustainability & technology
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Friday, 10 March, 2023, 12 : 00 PM [IST]
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Ismail Sutaria
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The confectionery industry is one of the largest and most diverse sectors of the food industry. From chocolates and sweets to candies and gums, there are countless varieties of confectionery products available in the market.
However, with the increase in competition, product differentiation has become essential for manufacturers. Packaging plays a critical role in this differentiation, as it helps to attract consumers and protect the product.
The confectionery industry is growing at a rapid pace, and packaging plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality of these products. Confectionery packaging is designed to protect the products from damage, preserve their freshness, and maintain their appearance. According to Future Market Insights (FMI), the confectionery packaging market was approximately $10.9 billion in 2022, and is projected to reach $15.3 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 3.5% from 2022 to 2032.
Packaging Types
The most commonly used packaging materials for confectionery products are plastic, paper, metal, and others. Plastic is the most widely used material due to its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. However, increasing concerns about the environmental impact of plastic packaging has led to a growing demand for eco-friendly packaging materials, such as paper and bioplastics.
Paper-based packaging is an increasingly popular option due to its recyclability and sustainability. Paper-based packaging can be customised to meet specific requirements and is available in a wide range of designs and shapes. Bioplastics, which are made from renewable resources such as corn starch, are also gaining popularity as an alternative to traditional plastic packaging.
Packaging Innovations
Innovations in confectionery packaging are focused on sustainability, convenience, and safety. Eco-friendly packaging, such as paper-based and biodegradable packaging, is becoming increasingly popular due to growing consumer awareness about the environmental impact of plastic packaging.
Smart packaging is another emerging trend in the confectionery packaging market. Smart packaging uses sensors and other technologies to provide information about the product's freshness, quality, and safety. Convenience packaging, such as re-sealable and portion-controlled packaging, is also gaining popularity among consumers who seek on-the-go snacking options.
Recent Packaging Trends
Confectionery packaging is a highly competitive market, with major players and institutes constantly innovating and developing new solutions to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers.
Here are some recent developments in confectionery packaging by major players and institutes:
Nestle: Nestle has been working on developing new sustainable packaging solutions for their confectionery products. They recently launched a new range of recyclable paper-based packaging for their KitKat bars in Europe. The packaging is made from sustainably sourced paper and is fully recyclable.
Mondelez International: Mondelez International has been experimenting with smart packaging solutions for their confectionery products. They recently launched a pilot project in Brazil, where they are using near-field communication (NFC), technology to create smart packaging for their Lacta chocolate bars. The NFC technology allows consumers to access digital content and interact with the brand in new ways.
Mars Wrigley: Mars Wrigley has been focusing on developing personalised packaging solutions for their confectionery products. They recently launched a new range of customizable M&M's in US, which allows consumers to create their own designs and messages on the packaging.
Ecolean: Ecolean, a Swedish packaging company, has been developing innovative flexible packaging solutions for the confectionery industry. They recently launched a new range of lightweight, flexible pouches for confectionery products, which are made from a minimal amount of plastic and can be recycled.
University of Birmingham: The University of Birmingham has been researching and developing new sustainable packaging solutions for the confectionery industry. They recently developed a new type of edible packaging made from seaweed, which can be used to wrap confectionery products. The seaweed packaging is fully biodegradable and can be eaten along with the product.
The confectionery packaging industry is constantly evolving and innovating, with major players and institutes focusing on sustainability, personalisation, and technological advancements. These recent developments are just a few examples of the creativity and ingenuity that are driving the industry forward. As consumers become more aware of the impact of packaging waste on the environment and demand more personalised and functional solutions, the confectionery packaging industry will continue to adapt and develop new solutions to meet their needs.
Global Regulations for Confectionery Packaging
There are several global regulations related to confectionery packaging, including safety, environmental, and labeling regulations.
Here are some of the recent regulations in different regions of the world:
Europe: In Europe, the General Food Law Regulation (EC) No. 178/2002 ensures food safety and sets out the responsibilities of food business operators. The regulation also establishes the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), to provide independent scientific advice on food safety issues. EU Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers requires the labeling of food products with information such as ingredients, allergens, and nutritional values. The Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC) establishes recycling targets for packaging waste, including confectionery packaging.
North America: In United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food packaging materials under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The FDA has established a list of substances that are generally recognized as safe (GRAS), for use in food packaging. The Nutrition Labeling and Education Act (NLEA), requires the labeling of food products with nutritional information. The California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), has also implemented regulations to reduce the use of toxic chemicals in packaging materials.
Asia: In China, the Food Safety Law regulates food packaging materials and sets out requirements for food packaging labeling. The law also establishes the China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), to oversee food safety issues. The Packaging Waste Management Regulations in Japan require manufacturers to take responsibility for the disposal of packaging waste. In India, the Food Safety and Standards Act, regulates food packaging materials and requires the labelling of food products with nutritional information.
Australia: In Australia, the Food Standards Code, regulates food packaging materials and sets out requirements for food labelling, including nutrition information. The Australian Packaging Covenant is a voluntary initiative that aims to reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste.
These regulations aim to ensure the safety of food products, provide consumers with accurate information about the products they are consuming, and reduce the environmental impact of packaging waste. Manufacturers of confectionery products must comply with these regulations to ensure the safety and quality of their products and to meet the demands of consumers who are increasingly conscious of environmental and health issues.
The Bottom Line
Confectionery packaging has been an integral part of the candy and sweets industry for decades. However, as we move towards a more sustainable and health-conscious future, the packaging needs to evolve too. The future of confectionery packaging is expected to be shaped by a variety of factors, including changing consumer preferences, advances in technology, and environmental concerns.
Sustainable packaging will be one of the biggest trends in the future of confectionery packaging. With the growing awareness of the negative impact of packaging waste on the environment, consumers are demanding more sustainable solutions. Biodegradable or compostable materials are likely to become popular, along with packaging made from recycled materials.
Technology is also driving innovation in the packaging industry, leading to smart packaging. This type of packaging is designed to interact with consumers in new ways. QR codes and NFC tags on packaging can be used to provide information about the product, share recipes, or even offer discounts. This technology will allow manufacturers to connect with their customers in a more personal and meaningful way.
Personalised packaging is another trend that is expected to gain momentum in the confectionery packaging industry. Consumers are looking for products tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This could include customised packaging based on factors such as age, gender, or dietary requirements.
As consumers become more health-conscious, health-focused packaging will also become more prevalent. This type of packaging will highlight the nutritional benefits of confectionery products, including information about ingredients, calorie counts, or sugar content. This will allow consumers to make informed decisions about what they are consuming and help them maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Lastly, functional packaging will play a critical role in the future of confectionery packaging. The packaging will be designed not only to protect and preserve the product but also to enhance the consumer experience. For example, packaging that is easy to open, re-sealable, or has built-in portion control features can make the product more convenient and appealing to consumers.
(The author is lead consultant for packaging and materials industry)
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